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Kandolhu Maldives: A Boutique Escape

Hopping around the Maldives has to be on pretty much every traveller’s bucket list, so spending only a day at this lovely boutique resort in the North Ari Atoll was bittersweet. Only 70 kilometres south west of Male, it’s the smallest of all the islands i’ve visited, Kandolhu and has around 30 luxury retreats, including 11 on the water. This lovely little hotspot can be reached by boat or seaplane and is the quintessential, Maldivian slice of island paradise. They say that even in the Maldives, an island as perfectly formed as this one is rare. Kandolhu, Maldives

The only thing on my mind as we pulled up to their wonderfully turquoise waters was to jump straight it, so wasting no time with luggage, we embarked on a guided snorkel safari in search of house reef turtles, and we weren’t disappointed either… Kandolhu, Maldives

The house reef here is teaming with tropical fish, but they noted that there’s a bit of a problem keeping it that way. The thorny-crown starfish is apparently become a plague and as it eats the coral that most fish live in and thrive on, it’s starting to wreak havoc on the reef. Its only known predator is few and far between so the resident marine biologist injects vinegar into them one by one to try to kill them off as eco-friendly as possible. Here’s hoping it works long term too!

Kandolhu is a small, quaint resort that is perfect for those who want an active daytime and yet want to feel like they are the only ones on the island too. We barely noticed the other guests and as the seaplanes and boats were kept off shore to reduce noise, we were free to listen to nothing but the waves rolling up on the beach, and the occasional fruit bat in the coconut trees barking at each other. Kandolhu, Maldives

You won’t be stuck for cuisine either as food wise, with 4 restaurants servicing only 30 villas, there’s plenty of choice, including the Maldivian standard Tepanyaki setup (seriously each resort has a Tepanyaki restaurant… onion volcano and all).

The water villas and beach villas too are exquisite! With a whole host of amenities and modern furnishings having been only recently remodeled, they are incredibly comfortable with all the latest gadgets, perfect for a little working retreat. Go-Pro’s are soon to be available in each room too which is a great idea as more than half of the best scenery is below the surface in the Maldives! Kandolhu, Maldives

Top Tips:

– Take a guided snorkel safari around the house reef in search of the camouflaged creatures
– Take a tour behind the scenes to see where everyone lives
– Relax on the white sandy beaches with a cocktail and watch the sun set

travel

Dreaming of A Luxury Escape: Hurawalhi

With V-day around the corner, it’s no wonder i’m feeling a little lovey-dovey at the moment. Bombarded by all the luxury gift ideas and cheesy cliche’d cards, it’s starting to feel a little too hallmark for me. So what do you get for Valentines day? I vote buying yourself a little treat by investing in a little romantic escape… somewhere warm, surrounded by blue seas and with plenty of ‘me-time’. Hurawalhi

Sitting pretty on the reefs of Lhaviyani Atoll, Hurawalhi is the Maldives’ newest island resort, just a 40-minute seaplane flight from Male. There’s space to explore too, bursting with beautiful areas to discover across the island, and you’ll have the option to stay in one of 90 villas, including 60 ocean villas and 30 beachside hotspots. A must-see undersea restaurant, a tropical champagne pavilion and don’t worry about being disturbed either, there’s no other resorts as far as the eye can see and for those looking to leave the kids at home, an over 15s-only policy. Hurawalhi Ocean Pool Villa

It’s not all glitz and glam though, if you’re like me and want to find something a little more green about the resort, it’s great to know that 60% of the island runs on sustainable solar energy, with the majority of the villas actually being powered by solar panels. There’s absolutely no plastic bottles on the island either – the island has its own water bottling plant so recycling here is key. Hurawalhi Beach Villa

One of my favourite places to visit in the Maldives though is actually below the surface of their crystal clear blue waters, and this resort boasts some of the best diving with nearby manta rays, nurse sharks and world-class dive sites all around. Their in-house marine biologist will help fill you in on their new collaboration with WiseOceans, the marine conservation and education specialists that are helping to preserve the island’s underwater habitat as a nesting site for green turtles.

But if you’re looking to experience this without getting wet, welcome to ‘5.8 Undersea’, the world’s largest underwater restaurant sunken to 5.8 meters under the sea. Here’s where it gets really romantic… every table is set for just two so expect it to get a little gushy below the water. Hurawalhi 5.8 Underwater

If you’re looking to keep off the extra few pounds after all that delicious food though, don’t fret, you don’t have to just sit there soaking up the sun (although why wouldn’t you) there’s tennis, badminton and beach volleyball and a whole load of water-sports too like; para-gliding, water-skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, windsurfing, kayaks and catamarans. Hurawalhi

See you at the bar!

travel yoga

Life Well Travelled in Oman

I’m all for a weekend away, but they aren’t always as glam as Instagram makes out. More often than not, they are choc full of busy days and business dinners, so every now and then I like to take a little time out. Not just from work, but from my phone too. It’s important in this day and age to learn to switch off. There’s a new online portal H Retreats that will help take care of your digital detox too… I love Oman as a place of constant peace and tranquility, it is my go-to getaway that’s also super easy to get to!

Here’s where i’m thinking to retreat to this year:

Al Baleed Resort
Beachside
They work with global certified healers, guides, therapists, health and fitness experts to create bespoke programmes to comfort, strengthen and support you along your retreat. This beautiful adventure is set aside the Indian Ocean on the south coast of Oman at Al Baleed Resort in Salalah, surrounded by mountains and the sea. A great place to unwind, recharge, discover and de-stress. Whilst enjoying the perks of a luxury five-star hotel too.
When: Wednesday 22nd March – Monday 29th March 2017
What you get:
Full board – breakfast, lunch and dinner
Airport transfers
8 yoga classes
Up to 6 one-to-one holistic treatments with world renowned healers and therapists
4 therapy workshops
2 luxurious spa massages
1 group Tibetan singing bowls session
1 nutrition workshop

alila jabal akhdar
Mountain High
An idyllic retreat, perched 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon in the Sultanate of Oman’s vast Saiq Plateau, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is everything Instagram says it is. Hike through valleys bursting with date palms and orchards of pomegranate, practice sun salutations atop a mountain, try abseiling, mountain climbing, archery or mountain biking!
When: Wednesday 7th June – Monday 12th June 2017
What you get:
Full board – breakfast, lunch and dinner
Airport transfers
8 yoga classes
Up to 6 one-to-one treatments with world renowned healers and therapists
Up to 4 therapy workshops
2 luxurious spa massages
1 Qigong workshop
1 group gong meditation/sound therapy session
1 nutrition workshop

travel

Gold on the Ceiling: Emirates Palace

It’s now considered an old establishment. Something from Arabia’s days gone past, where a night here was worth your weight in gold… literally. 5-star in all senses, with almost 400 rooms available, we found out why Emirates Palace hotel is still the pinnacle of Abu Dhabi’s luxury offerings. Emirates Palace

What else do you do when you land in a luxury resort such as this one in the capital, just a stone’s throw from home, yet it feels so very far away. If you’re at all like me, you take a tour of the grounds and get to know the lay of the land, especially if you’re on the hunt for some well-lit photo opportunities. Emirates Palace

There are some seriously instagrammed dancing fountains on your arrival and a 75m-mosaicked ceiling that will test your selfie stick to the limits. Head through the reception into the foyer to experience the world’s most expensive cappuccino (not including the 54AED cuppa joe in the restaurant mind)– but one that’s dusted in 24carat gold, in the only spot where cameras are a no-go. Emirates Palace

The halls are as you’d expect in something so grandeur, warmly lit but shrouded in marble, concrete and corridors, there’s no windows to guide you as you make your way through their maze of rooms and restaurants. It’s a 1km walk from wing to wing, but if you choose to cycle around it, you can get in a lovely 6km ride. Emirates Palace

The rooms are something else though, spectacular setup’s with beach views and enormous terraces that add an opulent extension onto your already spacious suite. On arrival, a bespoke travel cake creation and macaroons awaited us, adding a lovely little personalized touch to the already warm welcome. Emirates Palace

Sayad restaurant was our dinner destination of choice for the first evening, featuring a beautiful 7 or 10-course seafood menu, created exclusively by their visiting Michelin starred chef. With Thai influences and Scandinavian designs, the food varied from frozen curried canapés to disappearing green candy floss accompaniments. For our last night, we chose to sit on the beach and enjoy a plethora of freshly grilled seafood and potted salads, something that was much more to my taste and dress code. Emirates Palace

There’s a serious family-friendly vibe to the hotel, and yet its silent corridors and beaches make you feel comfortably alone. Yes it’s got camels on the beach and a mini Wild Wadi by the pool, but it’s also got a serious marina with some serious boats in it, including a Philip Stark designed pseudo-submarine called ‘A’ (parked here by a visiting Russian guest apparently – what a way to arrive!) Emirates Palace

Tips for staying at Emirates Palace:

– Get up early and go for a run around the grounds
– Count the different types of birds (seriously this is an ornithologists paradise)
– Check out which chef is visiting and book a table

travel

Maafushivaru – The Adventure Awaits

When you read about the Maldives, the thing you don’t necessarily realize is just how many different options there are here. With over 330 resorts amongst 1000+ islands, how do you choose your perfect Maldivian getaway? Most of the islands are under 15mins wide (walking distance) and with their very friendly staff; you can so easily get comfortable here. I’ve been extraordinarily lucky this trip to be able to try out a variety of different resorts, and test their levels of adventure, nature and aquatic experiences. Maafushivaru

One white-knuckle seaplane transfer from Male airport later and we’ve landed at our new atoll, Maafushivaru. Straight off the boat onto the pontoon we’re greeted with sea turtles and juvenile lemon sharks basking in the shallows, so I knew from the start this was going to be my kind of island. Maafushivaru

It’s got a very casual feel to the place, compared with our previous resort. It’s a smaller resort and as there’s less people at any one spot, it feels a bit more private. The weather had been threatening us all morning and during our lunch we first got a taste of its infamous tropical climate as we sat and enjoyed a very fuss-free buffet meal. It feels a bit like a luxury diving resort, it’s the kind of place that travelling solo, you’d feel totally at ease. Maafushivaru

This island has its own private island too, if you’re feeling like you want a bit more of a castaway experience (VIP of course) you can check into a separate atoll that’s completely yours for the night. Perfect for families or even a hen do! It’s got a restaurant on the island for when there’s no bookings though so you can still visit it during the day and hang out on an old dhow. Maafushivaru

After lunch we were invited on a private manta ray excursion, where we were also told whale sharks had been spotted in the area too! Not wanting to waste any more time at the dinner table, we all got our equipment ready and headed out with their on-site marine biologist to a nearby sandbar. The weather was determined to keep us guessing but unfortunately that meant the visibility had dropped. Maafushivaru

We didn’t hesitate to see what was beneath the waves (which had started picking up so for those of you who suffer from sea sickness… the best cure is really just to jump in!). Armed with a Go Pro and a snorkel, the water was actually a much warmer place to be than staying in the boat! Maafushivaru Wearing paddle suit from The Upside at Sun & Sand Sports

We toured the reef for all of about 30 minutes, with a few turtles popping up to say hello, amongst a bevvy of colorful fish. What was extremely noticeable amongst all the islands is the global El Nino phenomenon that’s hit them hard. There’s nothing locally that can be done, it’s a weather phenomenon that makes the shallow waters too warm to sustain the plant life.

From corals and reef-beds that used to line the coasts with colours in the Maldives, it’s estimated that over 60% has been lost. You can see a lot of broken corals, white and bare, covered in algae, to the point that live corals or anemones were few and far between. It’s not as bad as Australia of course who’s rumored to have lost up to 90% of their beautiful reefs!

No manta’s or sharks were spotted on our trip, but that gives me even more reason to come back! If you’re looking for more of an aquatic adventure, this island will make sure you get what you came for. Maafushivaru

Top tips:

– Take a Go-Pro!
– Enjoy some table-cooked Teppanyaki on the boardwalk
– Even if it rains, swim!

Adventure travel

Velassaru Maldives – A Tropical Paradise

Having never been to the Maldives before, I was completely convinced (thanks to instagram) that it was purely a honeymoon destination, which saw only couples really being able to enjoy its offerings, so hopping onto a plane to check it out with Adonis Marketing, I was slightly dubious about whether or not i’d be a little lonely on a small island. I’m not one for being able to sit still all day long, an hour here or there by the pool definitely, or seashell hunting along the shoreline, for sure, but if you tell me we’re here to ‘switch off’… well I just can’t. Velassaru Maldives

We landed in Male, (which is basically an airport on the sea) and jumped on a waiting yacht to an island only 20 mins from the airport itself. We passed water villa upon water villa on each coast of the island’s resorts, all looking like they just leapt off a postcard. Each atoll in the 1000+ Maldivian archipelago has a variety of luxury resorts (approx 300 in total) and each of them surrounded by bluer than blue waters (no camera truly does it justice) with a mixture of over-the water and beachfront villas. Velassaru Maldives

Landing at Velassaru, we’re welcomed by what felt like the whole crew. Ever-so-friendly staff were waiting to help us to our villas so that we could rest after the trip. As it was only 4 hours though, I decided to remain awake and jump in the pool to freshen up. Straight off the bedroom was my very own piece of paradise. Infinity in style and plunge in depth, the pool was the perfect temperature so I made myself at home. The moody skies juxtaposed with the turquoise tiles reminded me so much of Thailand at first, but there’s something totally unique about it here, a smell in the breeze that just feels clean, calming almost. Velassaru Maldives

We headed straight for their ‘Chill Bar’ to grab some mezze after our refresh, readying us for the much needed spa session to come. After an hour long Swedish escape, to which I don’t mind admitting I totally fell asleep in – which is a massive accomplishment as I’m never that relaxed, even during a massage. We then spent an hour savouring the indefinable pool to sea perspectives from their relaxation deck.

I spoke with Sri my spa therapist and asked her why she chose the Maldives. “There’s a lot of opportunity here for those who are looking to learn from the best and that’s what I always wanted… to keep learning and bettering my ability.”
Velassaru Maldives
So I’ll admit… there’s definitely something to this off-switch.

The spa was followed by my first dip in the ocean, which was pleasantly bearable I have to say, I was however a bit put off about the sand… I assumed looking at all the images of these pristine white beaches that the sand would be baby soft, but in fact, it’s ground down corals so there’s a little sharpness underfoot. Either way, the completely glass clear waters made it difficult to leave, what with sturgeons and parrot fish happily basking in the shallows nearby. No sharks or manta rays spotted yet but eagle rays and turtles often make an appearance under the water villas. Velassaru Maldives

Post- post downtime, we headed out onto the sand to experience the typical Maldivian style dinners on the beach. Executive Chef Costa Exprua, joined us to talk about his original flavour for French and Californian cuisines, but having had a hand in each of the menu’s across the variety of restaurants on the resort, Indo-Asian cuisine has become more of his forte since moving to the island. Featuring a stand-alone, open-air Tepanaki suite, it’s really easy to see why these islands make such good instagram fodder. Velassaru Maldives

What I loved most about my first trip to this tropical haven is that I’ve realized I’m 100% content (and haven’t forgotten how) to just be still and as a yogi, get back to my breathing. I did mention about a wake-surf plate for their wake-board only boat but we’ll see when I return… and I will!
Velassaru Maldives
Top tips for those looking to visit:
– Wake early for some sunrise yoga looking out across the archipelago
– Enjoy the local fish dishes
– Put your phone down, at least for a little bit – the sea life is everywhere under your feet and the clouds are dancing just as brilliantly above your head.

Recommended travel

Discovering the Chenot Palace, Azerbaijan

Only a mere 2.5 hours from Dubai lies a much colder, greener landscape in Azerbaijan. Green farmlands and foggy hillsides are prevalent, with a 25* drop in temperature from Dubai. Where both Russian and Arabic influences are clear, but there’s a real hint of Europe across it too. We set off on our 3 hour road trip to the brand new Chenot Palace wellness resort by car. The road is winding, long and yet somewhat peaceful too. Instead of the constant hooting you hear at home, it’s a controlled chaos here on the roads. Chenot Palace

After passing a Mishka (black bear) along the way, we knew we were headed out of Baku and towards Gabala where the wilderness resort was situated. It felt like Christmas almost, walking into their brand new foyer, with wooden design features everywhere and strong smells of burning log fires, knowing we were the first to experience everything this hotel has to offer. We enjoyed a few bio-lite evening snacks before heading up to bed. The schedule for the next two days promised only 1200 calories per day, with an extensive overview of the treatments the Chenot Health Wellness Resort is famous for in its native Italy.

DAY 1

Starting the morning off with a delicious spelt porridge and fruit, we headed into a barrage of nutritional, health and wellness check-ups so that we could identify areas that needed to be worked on across the two days. The first was a nutritional consult, which also provided information about our BMI, weight to muscle ratio and total body hydration, as well as giving us insight into our metabolic age. Chenot Palace

Next followed a more detailed body assessment with their diagnostics screening doctor, (nothing invasive though) with collagen tests and arterial elasticity checks, followed by a full body element check, which tells you if you’ve got too much mercury or selenium in your system for example. I really wanted to get my iron count checked (being a veggie) but the medical lab for blood tests was still under construction for the weekend. Chenot Palace

Once the more medical side of things was taken care of, I headed into a VERY interesting consultation with a Bio-Energetic doctor Mr. Ferucas. A predominantly Chinese form of energy balancing, you are asked to hold onto two golden probes whilst currents are transmitted throughout your body to find blockages. Once these blockages are found, he is then able to give you an incredibly in-depth translation. It was so interesting to listen to his account of elements in my past which had clearly shown to cause energy blockages in the meridians of my body. He then adjusted the computer to ensure that the waves going through a second time would unblock and re-energise me going forward. I almost hugged him when I left, an incredibly enlightening experience!

In order to compliment this, I was then shown straight in to the High-Tone treatment. Pads were placed on my five key pressure points and electricity flooded through me very gently, wave after wave, literally. I had on some earphones and it wasn’t long before I was fast asleep. Chenot Palace

Up next was something a little more my style… the BEST jacuzzi bath I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing! Disco lights and jets that held you still for half an hour. This was my introduction into hydro therapy.

Escorted next door in a towel, I was covered in a detoxifying mud and wrapped up like a burrito in cling film, so far so good. Then the bed I was lying on sunk into itself with me in the middle. It feels a little bit like being born… it’s snug to say the least and the layers of covers that help aid the detoxification keep things very warm in there. Once your 20 mins of sweating it all out (literally) are done, you then move across to the shower room. This part felt a bit more like a dog-grooming parlour than luxury spa, you spread ’em against a wall whilst being hosed off of all the mud from a distance. The overall feeling is actually quite nice, you have to just get your head around the prison-esque position you’re in. Chenot Palace

What i’ve realised here is that actually i’m not craving sugar. The food we’re given sustains you with enough energy to get through the day, sans hunger snacking. Must take more note of this when I get back home…

Day 2

As if a full day of diagnostics and treatment wasn’t enough, day 2 at the Chenot Palace started with an Energetic Massage. Implemented using NASA designed technology, their cupping treatment is enhanced by manual muscle stimulation along the meridians of your body. Not like other cupping treatments either… there’s no red rings or sore bruised muscles afterwards. This treatment uses a method that stimulates the area to bring out the toxins in a more natural pulsating movement, less chance of hickey-esque bruising and still as effective. Chenot Palace

Moving from the full body treatment onto a more deep cleansing facial, the cups were used again but a much smaller pair. A full facial detoxification through their uniquely combined creams and cleansers left me feeling tight-skinned and totally rejuvenated. As with most facials too, you expect to bare rather red, raw skin after a good treatment, a sign I assume of thorough cleansing, but this one left you feeling healed not hurt. Chenot Palace

The Chenot Method is found world wide in various establishments, but Azerbaijan being only its second fully owned operation. There’s rumours of a Dubai location due before the decade is out too, but I thoroughly recommend visiting the Azerbaijan hotspot, especially around January when there’s snow outside and the ski resort will be fully open.

Think of it as your New Year’s detox sorted.

*This trip was an incredible experience and all thanks to MichiDe International Luxury Hotel Representation

fashion Recommended travel

Vitamin Sea with Sapia Simone

In there like swimwear… I just cannot get enough of this brand. Not only is its founder, whose long-steeped history with fashion design, Sapia Simone a lovely human being, she launched her first collection at only 23, so she’s a total inspiration to me. With vitamin sea vibes, Sapia Simone was born and her SS17 collection is now officially live.
Sapia Simone
It’s more than just swimwear though, her resort collection features some gorgeous trousers and shirts that’ll make you feel totally tropical. Her pieces can be found in over 12 stores globally, but she’s based in Dubai now. Not so far a cry from having originated the brand where else, but the original sunshine society, Miami!
Sapia Simone
With an Italian background and education at Instituto Marangoni, (where D&G and many more hail from) Italian born Sapia Simone herself knew from a young age where her passion for fashion was taking her, and one incredible adventure in Zanzibar brought the dream to life.
Sapia Simone
Making it her aim to encourage and inspire a fresh perspective on ‘beach chic’. Her mission is to make playful and beautiful swimwear silhouettes, styles and resort wear that celebrate the active and adventurous female living across the world in a variety of sunshine societies.

I’m sold.

travel yoga

Retreat To These 3 Worlds of Wellness

Chenot Palace Health & Wellness Hotel, Gabala Azerbaijan
Opening on the 1st November, the Chenot Palace is introducing a completely new wellness landscape to us in the heart of Azerbaijan. Not immediately recognised as a luscious and bountiful green wonderland, this new retreat bring us the Chenot Method. For those of you that aren’t familiar with this concept – “the Chenot Method is a unique combination of treatments and diet that in synergy aim to protect effectively the body from damage and toxins accumulation and premature aging.” …interest peaked.Chenot Palace“The protocols of these treatments are collectively known as the Chenot Method and combine the principles of Chinese medicine with the latest scientific advances in medicine and state of the art diagnostic technology.”

They are boasting a highly professional team of doctors, dieticians and therapists who will be able to reveal the lifelines and energy flows through our bodies, aiding in the elimination of blockages and restrictions within them. The Chenot’s treatments are said to help balance our emotions too! (I can think of at least four people who need this right now including me)… Sign me up.

Anantara Kihavah, Maldives Villas
Anantara
So I’ve ticked diving with sharks off my list but swimming with up to 100 manta rays in the Indian Ocean sounds like a fairy tale! And what’s even better, I don’t need to get my license in order to do so. Free diving with these gorgeous creatures is truly an amazing opportunity and as this year’s manta ray season ends in November, I suggest you book Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas quick. It all happens at the protected site of Hanifaru Bay, only 45 minutes away from the resort and is the world’s largest natural manta feeding destination. Don’t worry though, it’s not island style free diving – they have a PADI – accredited, newly launched free diving centre to help guide you.

The resort itself is located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. So expect more than just these magical sightings when you’re there! I’ll be booking before the water gets too cold…

Banyan Tree, Phuket
Banyan Tree
Thailand has it’s own unique vibes and anyone whose ever visited this part of Asia will understand the pull to return time and time again. Most of my excursions here have either been up north or to one of the beautiful surrounding islands so this Phuket retreat sounds downright heavenly! Not one to sit still, there’s plenty of adventure to be had here too. Picture an awe-inspiring resort encased by swaying palm trees and turquoise waters. Sensational villas each with private pools, a world-renowned spa and dinners that will take your breath away!
Banyan Tree
If you’re a bit more of a culture vulture, head to Old town and spot the Portuguese influences amongst the villas, boutiques and streets. The Buddhist temples too are exquisite, Wat Chalong is one not to be missed, but try to avoid buying any Buddha relics or souvenirs as it’s not looked at favourably with the locals.

Recommended travel

The Gentle Giants of Thailand

I’ve got a new (well old) destination on my travel list this year… i’m never usually this desperate to re-visit somewhere i’ve been to many times before. But I’ve heard that there’s some endangered beautiful creatures roaming the coasts of Thailand.
Thailand
Southern Thailand struggles with over-commercialisation and a serious problem in my eyes, using animals as tourist traps. But just a one hour drive south of Krabi, on a relatively untouched stretch of beach (yes they still exist) is the Anantara Si Kao resort.

Found on the edge of the Had Chao Mai National Park, it’s got a few enticing treks, some towering limestone cliffs, uninhabited islands and as expected… stunning coastlines. But what it’s got that makes it even more unique, is the Dugong. Also known as a manatee or sea cow, these vegetarian, gentle giants are down to their last hundred or so, with this being one of their last natural habitats in South East Asia.
dugong
Why I want to visit this resort in particular? They’ve introduced a program that not only helps rejuvenate the main food source of the dugong, but also takes you to their feeding area so you can spot these elusive mammals.
dugong